World · India Bureau
Mysuru Dasara 2026 Kicks Off October 11 With Grand Vijayadashami Procession
Karnataka's iconic Mysuru Dasara celebrations will commence on October 11, 2026, with the traditional Vijayadashami procession scheduled for October 21. The ten-day festival marks the Hindu goddess Chamundeshwari's triumph over the demon Mahishasura.
LSN India ·
Mysuru Dasara, one of South India's most prominent cultural festivals, will unfold across ten days beginning October 11, 2026, officials confirmed. The festivities culminate with the grand Vijayadashami procession on October 21, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists to the palace city in Karnataka's Mysore district.
The Dasara festival holds deep religious and historical significance for Hindu devotees across the region. The celebrations commemorate Goddess Chamundeshwari's mythological victory over Mahishasura, the buffalo demon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The deity is revered as the presiding goddess of Mysore, with her shrine located atop Chamundi Hill overlooking the city.
The festival is traditionally marked by illuminating the historic Mysore Palace, showcasing cultural performances, processions featuring decorated elephants, and religious ceremonies at various temples. The Vijayadashami procession, the festival's highlight, traverses through the city's main thoroughfares, attracting participation from thousands of worshippers and spectators.
Mysuru Dasara has been celebrated for centuries and remains a significant event in Karnataka's cultural calendar. The 2026 edition is expected to continue this tradition, drawing visitors from across India and abroad who come to witness the vibrant displays of local heritage and religious devotion.